### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **bórboros**, represented by `{{G1004}}`, is defined as **mud** or **mire**. Though its derivation is uncertain, its meaning is clear. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single usage highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G1004}}` is in a proverb cited in 2 Peter to describe those who, after escaping the pollutions of the world, become entangled in them again. The passage states that it has happened to them according to the "true proverb," which describes a dog returning to its own vomit and "the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the **mire**" [[2 Peter 2:22]]. Here, **mire** serves as a potent symbol of the filth and corruption to which a person foolishly returns after having been cleansed.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words from its context help illuminate the meaning of `{{G1004}}`:
* `{{G5300}}` **hŷs** (sow): A primary word for a hog or "swine," this is the animal in the proverb that, despite being washed, returns to the mire [[2 Peter 2:22]].
* `{{G3068}}` **loúō** (wash): This verb, meaning to bathe the whole person, describes the cleansed state of the sow before its return to filth, highlighting the contrast [[2 Peter 2:22]].
* `{{G2946}}` **kýlisma** (wallowing): Defined as a wallow or filth, this noun describes the specific action that the sow returns to in the mire, emphasizing the deliberate return to an unclean state [[2 Peter 2:22]].
* `{{G1994}}` **epistréphō** (turned): Meaning to revert or turn back, this word is used to describe the dog's action and parallels the sow's return to the mire, signifying a spiritual or moral reversion [[2 Peter 2:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1004}}` is concentrated in its single, illustrative use. It conveys a stark warning about the nature of apostasy and spiritual defilement.
* **Symbol of Moral Filth:** The **mire** is not just physical mud; it represents a state of sin and corruption. It is the destination for those who revert to their old ways after experiencing a form of cleansing.
* **The Tragedy of Reversion:** The proverb is called "true" `{{G227}}`, underscoring the reality of people turning back. The image of a washed sow choosing the **mire** illustrates the tragic and illogical nature of abandoning a purified life for spiritual defilement [[2 Peter 2:22]].
* **A Warning Against False Conversion:** The imagery serves as a powerful cautionary tale. The sow was "washed" `{{G3068}}` externally, but its nature remained unchanged, leading it back to the **mire**. This illustrates a change that is not a true, inner transformation.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G1004}}` is among the rarest words in the New Testament, its single use in [[2 Peter 2:22]] gives it a profound symbolic meaning. As the **mire**, it represents the ultimate state of defilement to which one can return. It functions as a sober and unforgettable biblical warning against the dangers of turning back from a cleansed path to once again wallow in sin.
TRV